Abstract: A method and apparatus for writing bits (or pixels) on a target by scanning a continuous wave laser beam across an array of concave mirrors. The radiation reflected from the concave mirror array images a row of stationary dots on the target during each scan. To write a dot matrix pattern, after each row of dots is written on the target, the target is translated (perpendicularly to the row of dots) by an increment, and another row of dots is then written on the target. The laser beam can be modulated while it is scanned across the concave mirror array, for example, by being selectively transmitted through a shutter. Preferably, the beam is swept across the concave mirror array by reflecting from a rotating mirror (which can be flat or polygonal with multiple facets). In a class of preferred embodiments of the invention, lines of variable length and width (rather than dots) are written on the target. This is accomplished by scanning the continuous wave laser beam across a system of variable lenses.